Sea otters are adorable...
...and help save the planet!
Sea otters (Enhydra lutris) are marine mammals who are found on both coasts of the North Pacific Ocean. They are an endangered species, both due to their lowering numbers, but also for their importance in the ecosystem. Sea otters are keystone species as they help keep the ecosystem healthy by controlling the population of sea urchins and other marine invertebrates. Everywhere sea otters live there are rich kelp forests, that are responsible for absorbing carbon dioxide, providing a shelter for many sea plants and animals and reducing coastal erosion.
Sea otters have the richest fur of all mammals on the planet. Their fur is their main source of heating, along with their high metabolism. For these reasons, sea otters are grooming masters, who keep their fur clean and dry to avoid freezing to death. Furthermore, adult sea otters can eat up to 11kg of food per day to keep up with their metabolism. They also love icy treats!
Sea otters are playful and resourceful. They are one of the few non-primates who have learned to use tools (to break the hard shells of their food for example). They also make great mothers. A new-born mostly lives on their mother’s chest until they are about six months old. The mother takes care of the grooming, the feeding, and the protecting while the pup sleeps and learns how to otter!
Fun fact: a group of sea otters is called a raft!
🆕🦦🚨 Recently, a new-born pup was rescued and deemed non-releasable. His name is Joey and he currently lives in the Vancouver Aquarium, along with six new friends. Joey and his friends have even their own livestream 🤩!
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This page was built by Eleni Spiridoni